“Six Years After Deputy Shooting, Survivor Urges Donations During National Blood Donor Month”

Accident – death – Obituary News : Six years after a Douglas County Sheriff’s deputy almost lost his life in a shooting that claimed the life of a fellow deputy, he is opening up about his experience and urging people to donate blood during National Blood Donor Month.

Deputy Jeff Pelle responded to a domestic disturbance call in Highlands Ranch on December 31, 2017. Despite it being New Year’s Eve and almost the end of their shift, Pelle decided to go to the call and lend a helping hand.

“When we entered the apartment, we were met with gunfire,” Pelle recalled. The incident resulted in four deputies, including Pelle, an officer, and two neighbors being shot. Tragically, Deputy Zack Parrish did not survive, leaving behind a wife and two young daughters.

Pelle sustained serious injuries during the shooting. “When I got shot, I was actually bent over trying to pull Zack out, so the bullet came through my right armpit and it collapsed my lung, lacerated my liver, and then I had multiple shattered ribs and multiple broken ribs as well,” Pelle explained.

Fortunately, Pelle received a major blood transfusion that saved his life. He lost five units of blood during the ordeal. “Without that blood transfusion, I would not be here,” he acknowledged.

The shooting incident has had a lasting impact on Pelle. He thinks about that day often, remembering the friend he lost and the life-saving transfusion he received. Pelle now has two daughters, who are the same age Parrish’s daughters were when he died.

“I have two little girls now, 4-and-a-half and 1, and they wouldn’t be here without that transfusion,” Pelle expressed with gratitude.

Motivated by his own experience, Pelle is now advocating for blood donation and encouraging others to give the gift of life. “You’re helping somebody on their worst day, and you can save their life by making that donation,” he emphasized.

The American Red Cross recently declared a blood shortage emergency, citing a 20-year low in the number of blood donors in the United States. To make a blood donation appointment, individuals can visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), or check Vitalant’s website.

As Pelle continues his work as a deputy, he carries on the legacy of Deputy Parrish. He understands the importance of blood donation and the impact it can have on someone’s life, just as it did for him.

In conclusion, during National Blood Donor Month, Deputy Jeff Pelle is sharing his story and urging others to make a life-saving donation. The shooting incident he experienced six years ago serves as a reminder of the crucial role blood transfusions play in saving lives. By donating blood, individuals can help someone on their worst day and potentially save their life. Let us come together to address the blood shortage crisis and make a difference in the lives of those in need..